By Gbolahan Aderibigbe
In an inspiring display of academic talent and cultural pride, the inaugural Biology in Yoruba quiz competition recently concluded, marking a significant step toward combating science illiteracy in Nigeria. Over the course of three weeks, this innovative initiative brought together six talented students from public secondary schools across Oyo State to engage in a unique challenge: answering biology questions in the Yoruba language. The roots of this transformative educational effort trace back to 2018, when the Biology in Yoruba radio program was launched as a pioneering mother-tongue science initiative. Recognising the challenges posed by language in understanding complex scientific concepts, the program was designed to facilitate learning by delivering science education in Yoruba, the region’s native language. This innovative approach allowed students to connect more deeply with the material, enhancing comprehension and retention, while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba-speaking community.
Launched in response to the growing gap in science literacy and education, the Biology in Yoruba radio program utilised an engaging format that included discussions, interviews with educators, and interactive segments tailored to spark students’ interest in biology. Hosted on local radio stations, the program quickly gained popularity, attracting not just students but also parents and educators who recognised the importance of science education in familiar linguistic contexts. Building on the strong foundation established by the radio program, the recent quiz competition was introduced under the “Imo Eda Project,” spearheaded by the Biology in Yoruba team. The competition aimed to enhance students’ understanding of scientific concepts while reinforcing the use of indigenous languages in education. This groundbreaking initiative not only promotes comprehension of the complex subject of Biology but also seeks to inspire a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage in the educational landscape.
The first week of the competition kicked off on October 10, 2025, featuring three exceptional contestants: Adetola Princess from Abadina College, Ibadan; Johnson Favour from Samonda Community School; and Adewoyin Kabirah from Abadina Grammar School. Each student showcased their extensive knowledge of biology, answering questions on various topics in Yoruba. Their remarkable performances underscored the significance of working within a familiar linguistic framework, which enhances retention and understanding of scientific principles. With an exciting atmosphere enveloping the participating schools, Adetola Princess emerged victorious in the first week, setting the stage for the subsequent round of competition.
The following week, three more bright minds joined the fray: Rashidat Saheed from Army Day High School in Mokola, Olapemike Gbadebo from Alegongo Community High School, and Adele Testimony from Bashorun High School. Their participation exemplified the diverse talent found across Oyo State. Rashidat Saheed’s sharp intellect and quick reasoning earned her the title of winner for the second week, bringing the competition closer to its grand finale: a face-off between the two weekly winners. On October 24, 2025, the excitement peaked at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (Oluyole FM) radio station, where Adetola and Rashidat faced off in an electrifying 50-minute showdown, demonstrating their command of biology while engaging the listening audience in Yoruba. As time ticked down and the questions became increasingly challenging, Adetola Princess once again claimed the title, showcasing not only her academic prowess but also her commitment to advancing biological science education in her community. The overarching theme of the competition resonated throughout the finale, as participants addressed pressing scientific topics and contributed narratives that illustrated the intersection of culture and education.
In recognition of their hard work and commitment to academic achievement, both Adetola and Rashidat received cash gifts and eco-friendly school supplies, ensuring their continued success in their educational journeys. Representatives from the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology of Oyo State attended the spirited competition, commending the Biology in Yoruba team for their efforts in forging partnerships that yield positive outcomes for students.
“This initiative is a beacon of hope, especially for students from low-income communities,” said the commissioner.
The prizes distributed included books, further exemplifying the collaborative efforts between the Biology in Yoruba team and stakeholders in the education sector, setting a high standard for scientific development in the nation. An integral partnership with the international organisation, The Pollination Project Foundation, also supports this initiative’s mission.